StarChapter of the Month

The Des Moines Chapter of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners is dedicated to the detection and deterrence of fraud. They are a non-profit, professional organization comprised of professionals from a variety of backgrounds including: investigations, auditors, law enforcement and loss prevention, accountants and finance. The Des Moines Chapter is located in the Des Moines, IA metropolitan area and all fraud professionals are welcome, and encouraged to join. Whether you are a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), a member of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) or not, membership to the Des Moines Chapter is open to everyone to share in the commitment of the education and training of anti-fraud measures. We were able to connect with Tammy Simpson, the Treasurer of the chapter, to discuss how they have reorganized their chapter in order to grow their membership.

1. What was Des Moines Chapter ACFE’s strategy for engaging new members in the past year?

In 2017-2018, the Des Moines Chapter ACFE Chapter focused on building a new website through StarChapter. The new website added the feature of accepting applications, managing chapter meetings, and collecting dues and meeting fees online. The new look is amazing!

2. Tell us about a successful event/meeting you organized last year.

In February, the Des Moines Chapter ACFE joined forces with the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) of Central Iowa Chapter for a joint meeting. The joint meeting’s presentation was provided by FBI Special Agent Kevin Kohler. Mr. Kohler’s experience with a wide range of financial crime investigations includes: bank fraud, insurance fraud, health care fraud, corporate fraud, embezzlements, fraud against the government, and public corruption. This was a great opportunity to hear from an expert investigator and network among the local ACFE and IIA chapters.

3. The Des Moines Chapter ACFE network is extensive. Does the board get ideas on how to improve membership value from other chapters?

The chapter is always looking for suggestions from members. When attending other chapter’s events, the board often discusses how other boards are doing things to learn ways to improve our value to our membership base.

4. Do you have any tips/advice to share with other board volunteers?

Never underestimate the power of an organized website and how it can open doors for your chapter, get your story out to others, and free up some time for the board.

5. What is in store for your members this year?

In 2018-2019, the Des Moines Chapter ACFE has plans to do membership drive.

6. How have been able to utilize StarChapter to run the Des Moines Chapter ACFE and reach its goals?

StarChapter has helped the Des Moines Chapter ACFE organize the process of becoming a member, joining a meeting event, and collecting dues and fees. Now that the process is less burdensome, the chapter is looking forward to adding members and expanding the chapter.

Would you like to share the success story of your chapter with other board volunteers? We'd love to feature you! Fill out this form to let us know.